In the vibrant archipelago of Cabo Verde, a quiet revolution that promises to reshape the country’s economic landscape and position it firmly within the global digital economy is taking shape.
At the heart of this transformation is BOOST.CV, a pioneering initiative designed to ignite innovation, foster inclusion and connect Cabo Verdean startups with the world. This program is not only a mere support platform but also stands out as a testament to the country’s commitment to nurturing its entrepreneurial spirit and leveraging technology as a catalyst for development.
A National Platform for Innovation and Inclusion
BOOST.CV was conceived as an ambitious response to the evolving needs of Cabo Verde’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Funded by The World Bank and spearheaded by the Ministry of Digital Economy, through entities like ProEmpresa and Cabo Verde Digital, the initiative aims to create a comprehensive support system for startups that are either digitally native, tech-enabled or transitioning from traditional business models into the digital sphere.
Implemented by Djassi Africa, BOOST.CV embodies a collaborative effort to ensure that no innovative potential is left behind, regardless of geographic or demographic barriers.
The program’s core philosophy emphasizes inclusion, not only in terms of gender and background but also in embracing the diaspora’s vital role in shaping Cabo Verde’s future.
By fostering an environment where diverse entrepreneurs can thrive, BOOST.CV seeks to build a resilient and dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem capable of competing on a global scale.
The First Cohort: A Milestone in Cabo Verde’s Startup Journey
The inaugural cohort of BOOST.CV comprises twenty-six startups led by Cabo Verdeans from across the country and its diaspora.
These entrepreneurs are Edmar Goncalves, Darlene Barreto, Djony Costa, Katya Modesto, Wilkar da Graca, Anabela Miranda, Marcelo Cesar, Leida Silva, Luis Pires, Any Keila Pareira, Vania Costa, Ivan Moreira, Berenice Tavares, Alvaro Lima, Kenny Afonso, Claudia Barros, Nelson Varela, Sonia Semedo, Johnny de Pina, Marlene Lima, Silvia Monteiro, Cristina Leal, Ivete Silva, Gigi Oliveira, Rayra Odeh and Jailson Silva.
They represent a diverse spectrum of backgrounds, industries, and experiences, united by a common vision of harnessing technology to solve real-world problems. What makes this cohort particularly remarkable is its composition. More than half of the founders are women, exemplifying the program’s commitment to gender inclusion and empowerment.
Moreover, a significant portion of the founders hail from the diaspora, representing France, Portugal, the Netherlands, the United States and the United Kingdom. This international representation underscores Cabo Verde’s vibrant entrepreneurial diaspora, which plays an increasingly pivotal role in the country’s economic development.
It also illustrates the global reach of BOOST.CV, fostering a sense of community that transcends borders and connects Cabo Verde’s talent to the wider world.
This first cohort is already making history by demonstrating the country’s capacity for innovation and growth. These startups are solving tangible problems in health, finance, agriculture and education, building scalable businesses that can thrive both locally and internationally.
Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Intense Venture Support
Participation in BOOST.CV involves a rigorous and comprehensive process designed to accelerate startup growth. Over the course of ten weeks, entrepreneurs engaged in hybrid learning that combined in-person and virtual sessions. This venture-building support aimed to equip founders with the skills, tools and networks necessary to turn their ideas into viable, scalable businesses.
A detailed maturity diagnosis of each business was conducted, providing entrepreneurs with a clear understanding of their current position and future potential. Personalized mentorship from top-tier global mentors offered tailored guidance, helping founders navigate challenges and seize opportunities unique to their markets and industries.
Workshop sessions with international experts through BOOST.CV Academy provided additional layers of vast knowledge, from product development and marketing to financial planning and investor pitching. These sessions fostered a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, vital ingredients for startup success in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Beyond technical skills and mentorship, BOOST.CV also grants access to advanced tools that aid in growth, such as digital marketing platforms, data analytics and funding opportunities. This comprehensive approach ensures that startups are not only ideation-stage ventures but are also equipped to scale and sustain their operations.
Building a Global Support Network
One of BOOST.CV’s most innovative features is its emphasis on creating a global support network. By connecting Cabo Verdean founders with international mentors, investors and industry experts, the program lays the groundwork for startups to access markets and resources beyond national borders.
This global connectivity is crucial in today’s digital economy, where opportunities often transcend geographical limitations. It encourages knowledge sharing, investment and partnerships that can propel startups into new markets and industries.
The network also fosters a sense of community among entrepreneurs, enabling peer-to-peer learning and collaboration. As startups grow and face new challenges, this support system becomes an invaluable asset, helping founders stay motivated and resilient.
Driving Impact and Shaping the Future
The impact of BOOST.CV extends beyond individual startups. By nurturing innovative, inclusive and globally connected entrepreneurs, the program is helping to accelerate Cabo Verde’s digital economy and diversify its economic base. Startups involved in the program are poised to create jobs, develop new products and services and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable economy.
The emphasis on gender inclusion has already begun to shift perceptions and open pathways for women entrepreneurs who historically faced barriers in accessing funding and support. With over half of the cohort’s founders being women, BOOST.CV exemplifies how targeted initiatives can promote gender equality in entrepreneurship.
The significant participation from the diaspora also highlights the importance of remittances, skills transfer, and international partnerships in fostering local innovation. It demonstrates that Cabo Verde’s entrepreneurial potential is not confined within its borders but is a global resource that can be harnessed to drive development.
Vision for the Future
The ambitions for BOOST.CV are expansive. The program aims to support up to one hundred and fifty startups by the end of twenty twenty-five, creating a vibrant ecosystem where innovation flourishes. As more startups graduate from the program, their success stories will serve as catalysts for further entrepreneurial activity across the archipelago and in the diaspora.
This initiative is not merely a funding or training platform. It is also a movement towards a digitally inclusive and innovative Cabo Verde. It seeks to inspire young entrepreneurs, empower women and harness the talents of Cabo Verdeans worldwide to build scalable, impactful businesses.
Transforming the Entrepreneurial Landscape
BOOST.CV has the potential to become a cornerstone of Cabo Verde’s economic transformation. By providing tailored support, fostering inclusion and connecting entrepreneurs to global networks, it is creating an environment where innovation can thrive.
The program’s emphasis on building capacity, fostering partnerships and promoting digital transformation aligns perfectly with Cabo Verde’s broader development goals.
The success of the first cohort is a testament to the country’s commitment to nurturing its entrepreneurial talent and leveraging technology as a driver of growth. It serves as an inspiring example for other nations seeking to harness digital innovation for economic inclusion and sustainable development.
A Bright Horizon for Cabo Verdean Entrepreneurship
The launch and progress of BOOST.CV mark a pivotal moment in Cabo Verde’s journey towards a more diversified, inclusive and digitally empowered economy.
With its focus on nurturing talent from within and abroad, providing comprehensive support and fostering international connections, the initiative is laying the foundation for a new generation of entrepreneurs poised to make a lasting impact.
As the program continues to expand, the ripple effects will reach far beyond the startup ecosystem, influencing societal change, generating employment and positioning Cabo Verde as a dynamic hub of innovation in Africa and beyond. BOOST.CV embodies the nation’s resilience, entrepreneurial spirit and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of technology.
This is just the beginning of a promising future where Cabo Verde’s innovative potential is fully unleashed and its entrepreneurs lead the way to a more inclusive and prosperous tomorrow.
